It is essential to understand electrical systems and vehicle batteries. Being stuck with a malfunctioning battery while on the way to an essential gathering is a difficult situation no one would want to be in. Being mindful of the battery and being aware of the appropriate steps to take will help you avoid this type of circumstance. Generally, car batteries have a life expectancy of 3 to 5 years, although specific driving styles and exposure to severe conditions can decrease the battery’s lifespan.
Factors that may decrease the life of a battery.
As mentioned earlier, some factors affect the lifespan of your battery. Here are some of them.
- Extreme heat. High temperatures can cause battery fluid to evaporate, resulting in internal structural damage.
- Extreme cold. Just as extreme heat can be damaging, extreme cold makes the engine oil thicker, requiring more energy to keep the engine running. As a result, the battery is forced to work even harder when capacity is at its lowest.
- Leaving electric accessories on. One bad common driving habit that people do is leaving the lights, air conditioner, or any other electricity-dependent car accessories open when we are parking. This act tends to drain the battery quicker than normal.
- Moisture and corrosion. Some electric shorts occur when there is moisture in the engine bay. This results in corrosion forming on some electrical connectors and battery terminals. When this occurs, it can result in shorts and added resistance, draining your car battery quickly.
- Faulty alternator. This is a no-brainer; if the alternator is defective, it causes the energy of the battery to drain more rapidly.
How car batteries work
It is necessary to comprehend electrical networks and auto batteries. Being stranded with a broken battery while traveling to a critical assembly is a problem no one would like to experience. Keeping in mind the battery and being mindful of the proper actions to take will help you keep away from this type of situation. Generally, car batteries have a life span of 3 to 5 years, however, certain driving techniques and exposure to extreme environments can reduce the battery’s longevity.
When should you change your battery?
It is very easy to know when your battery needs to be changed. You have to look out for the following signs:
If your vehicle is having difficulty beginning or running at a slower than usual speed, it could be a sign that you need to replace the battery.
- When a battery has been subjected to too much heat or has been overcharged, the casing can become swollen or discolored.
- In the event of a battery being damaged, it is possible for there to be a leakage which leads to a decrease in the battery’s liquid level.
- If you detect an unpleasant odor coming from your engine, don’t disregard it. It could be a sign of a damaged battery or internal short causing gas to leak. If you smell something like rotten eggs when you lift the hood, it’s likely due to a leaking battery.
- When the engine warning light is illuminated, it is generally an indication of a problem with the charging system, which includes the battery.
Any of these problems could indicate that the battery in your car has reached the end of its life, or that the battery has malfunctioned.
Steps to remove your battery before installing a new one
Replacing a vehicle’s battery is an uncomplicated job, yet it must be carried out in the right way. There are fundamental procedures that need to be followed.
Step 1: Make sure to observe safety protocols, work in a place with good air circulation, and always put on safety glasses and gloves.
Step 2: Shut off the vehicle, make sure the motor is not running, and activate the parking brake.
Step 3: To find the battery, look in the engine compartment as this is typically where it is situated; however, in some cars, it can be in the trunk or even underneath a seat in the interior.
Step 4: Unplug the grounding wires and take off the battery holder, which is usually a red cable, and the battery holder is usually a bar across the battery.
Step 5: Take out the battery. Pick up the battery and make sure it stays balanced as you take it out of the automobile.
Final words
Once you have followed the steps above, it is important to install the new battery carefully to avoid any damage. To guarantee that it has been put in correctly, it is suggested to contact a professional. K & M Tire & Auto can professionally install Interstate Batteries correctly in your car and also provides other services such as engine diagnostics, wheel alignment, oil and filter changes, tire changes, etc.